Thousands run in Central Park despite cancelled marathon

Thousands of runners poured into New York City’s Central Park on Sunday to take part in improvised races after the Big Apple’s official marathon was cancelled due to the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy. Competitors from around the world could complete four loops of the Park while hundreds of spectators braved the cold to cheer on their friends and family. A drop-off point for Sandy Relief was arranged for the original finish line and each runner was asked to donate food, clothing and money. The marathon, which was cancelled for the first time since the annual race’s inception in 1970, usually draws around 2 million spectators.